Kampala's Garbage Disposal Sparks Heated Debate

The decision to relocate Kampala's garbage dumping site to Buyala in Mpigi district has caused tension between the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the National Forestry Authority (NFA), and local residents.

Residents and the NFA accuse KCCA of illegal land acquisition, environmental harm, and a lack of transparency. NFA warns that dumping waste in the Buto Buvuma forest reserve could severely damage Uganda’s ecosystem.

Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago claims the relocation plan was made without involving the council, criticizing the Ministry for Kampala for sidelining key stakeholders.

KCCA spokesperson Dan Nuweabine defends the move, stating the process was lawful and transparent, with the landowner’s consent obtained for temporary dumping. He asserts that all legal protocols were followed.

Local residents are resisting the relocation, accusing the government of breaking promises to conserve the forest reserve for community use. They fear the project will destroy their environment and livelihoods.

The controversy underscores Kampala’s urgent need for sustainable waste management solutions and open dialogue between stakeholders. For now, the standoff continues as concerns over governance, environmental protection, and community welfare remain unresolved.